Island Encounter & Ancient Tonga

From the dramatic blow holes, the Royal Palace and Royal Tombs to cultural demonstrations and adorable flying foxes, experience true Tongan culture on this half day tour. Stop at the Royal Palace, home of his late Majesty, King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV. The charming Victorian-era building was shipped from New Zealand and reassembled in Nuku’alofa in 1867. Your tour continues to the Royal Tombs, where King George Tupou I and the rest of the late members of the Tongan Royal Family are at rest. Make a stop at Ancient Tonga, where a variety of interesting exhibits provide an insight into the local culture. Learn the myth of the coconut’s origin and traditional methods of obtaining coconut milk. Discover the secrets of baking Tongan food in an earth oven and enjoy performances of local song and dance, the intricacies of tapa cloth making, mat weaving and wood carving. Final stop of the day, on the rocky coastline, experience the dramatic blowholes, at peak times they spout nearly 30 metres into the sky. After the Royal Tombs you’ll meet some adorable furry friends at Tofoa Village, home to the island’s much-loved flying fox colony. Special Notes: The activity of the blowholes cannot be guaranteed. Basic local buses are used for transportation, they are not equipped with air conditioning or a PA system. Restroom facilities may be rustic. Ask permission before taking any photographs of the local people. To make your day as enjoyable as possible please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, clothing suited to the weather conditions, bring a hat, insect repellent, plenty of sunscreen and bottled water.

Photography

Capture the many fascinating sights of Nuku’alofa on film, but be sure to ask permission before taking photographs of the local people.

Refreshments

Seasonal tropical fruits will be served at the Ancient Tonga.